Joseph D. Scales, 87, of Coeur d'Alene, passed away Monday, July 25, 2011. He was born Oct. 18, 1923, in Miami, Fla., to Robert W. and Marion G. (Edwards) Scales.

Joseph is survived by his wife of 64 years, Rita A. (O'Keefe) Scales. He is also survived by his son, Denny J. Scales of Fostoria, Ohio; two grandchildren, Randy, who is stationed in the military in Mountain Home and his granddaughter, Anna, who lives in Spokane. He also has two great-grandsons, John Paul III and David.

Joseph is preceded in death by his son, Jack, who passed in 1995; two grandsons, John and Ryan; and a brother, Robert.

Joseph was a very dedicated and decorated veteran in the military. After spending some time in the U.S. Coast Guard, Joseph joined the Air Force and was a Chief Master Sargent with McArthurs 7th Amphibious Forces. He was at Cape Gloucester, New Guinea, and the Philippines from 1943-1945. Served 28 years in the military and earned the bronze star and was in 14 invasions.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1970, Joseph and Rita traveled for two years and then settled in Coeur d'Alene. He will be missed by those who knew him and loved by those he served.

A private family internment will be held Saturday, July 30, 2011, at Evergreen Cemetery in Post Falls. Bell Tower Funeral Home, Post Falls, is in care of the arrangements. Please visit Joseph's online memorial page at www.belltowerfuneralhome.com.